“Since most fire and ambulance departments are operated by volunteers, this financial assistance will go a long way at helping them maintain state-of-the-art equipment and provide training programs,” Hess said. “This is the least state government can do for the men and women who put their lives in harm’s way to protect our lives and our properties.”

Last year, area fire and ambulance organizations received more than $180,000 in funding from the program, which was created by the General Assembly as Act 10 of 2007. The program is funded through state gaming proceeds.

The grants may be used for construction or renovation of a unit's station, the purchase or repair of equipment, training or debt reduction. The maximum grant amount is $15,000 for volunteer fire companies and $10,000 for volunteer ambulance services. A total of $25 million will be awarded through the program.

Grants to eligible fire companies will be contingent on their agreeing to participate in and report information using the Pennsylvania Fire Information Reporting System (PennFIRS).

The online application period will begin Sept. 7 and will remain open until Oct. 21.

“I encourage volunteer fire departments and volunteer ambulance service providers throughout the 78th District to apply for this grant,” Hess said. “I want to thank each of them for the work they do throughout the local area.”

For more information, visit Hess’ Web site at Dick- Hess.com and click on “Fire and Ambulance Grants.”